As a working mom, I’ve experienced a bit of everything—full-time, part-time, stay-at-home, and work-from-home arrangements. Regardless of my role, there are certain things that should simply never be uttered to a mother, especially one striving to balance the demands of motherhood with work, friendships, and family life. While support and advice are often appreciated, some remarks can be downright frustrating. Here are ten things a working mom really doesn’t want to hear:
- “I could never let someone else raise my kids.”
Oh, really? It’s not like I’m outsourcing the entire parenting job. I still handle homework, dinner, and all the important moments. This isn’t an all-or-nothing scenario. - “Kids are the most important thing. I make time for what’s most important to me.”
This statement is just too much to unpack. It’s not a competition over priorities, and every family’s situation is unique. - “You spent all day without your kids; why do you need an hour to yourself?”
That’s a fair question if you’ve never dealt with constant demands for attention. Trust me, it’s a challenge. - “You’ll realize that no amount of money is worth the time you’re missing out on.”
Absolutely valid point—when I can afford to stop paying my mortgage, utility bills, and grocery expenses. It’s not that simple, is it? - “I don’t know how you get everything done.”
Is this a compliment or a joke? Because the truth is, I’m often just trying to keep my head above water. - “Your kids are sick? Isn’t there someone else who can take care of them?”
Surprise! Daycare has policies against sick kids, and everyone else I know is busy working too. Funny how kids tend to want their moms when they’re not feeling well. - “It must be good to get away.”
Oh yes, I do a little jig every time I step away from my beloved family. It’s a real party. - “Cutting back on your expenses could allow you to stay home with your kids.”
Newsflash: My kids have been wearing hand-me-downs since birth, and my car is a relic. I’ve already made cuts, thank you very much. Plus, I genuinely enjoy my job! - “Good for you for putting yourself first!”
Oops! I thought I was prioritizing my family. My mistake. - “Good for you for taking whatever measures you have to take.”
This comment treads a fine line. I’m not doing this out of necessity; I get to do this. I get to be present for my kids in the morning and at bedtime. I get to make a contribution to my family’s lifestyle and show them the value of hard work in and out of the home.
For more insights on the challenges and rewards of motherhood, check out our post over at Cervical Insemination. If you’re considering at-home insemination, Make A Mom offers reliable kits that can help you on your journey. And for comprehensive information on pregnancy, visit NICHD.
In summary, working moms navigate a complex world of responsibilities and emotions. The comments we receive often overlook the multifaceted nature of our lives. Let’s choose our words wisely and support each other in this journey.
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